University News Last updated 16 December
A groundbreaking collaboration between Birmingham City University (BCU) and Ikon Gallery is transforming creative education, developing artistic talent and expanding public access to the arts across the West Midlands and beyond.
Launched in October 2024, BCU Tuesdays has created a powerful new platform for students, staff and communities, while enriching Ikon’s public programme with new ideas, emerging talent and expanded opportunities for cultural engagement.
Following the success of the inaugural year, BCU and Ikon have agreed to continue the partnership, ensuring the programme will grow further and reach even more people.
Professor David Mba, Vice-Chancellor of BCU, said: “This partnership has opened new pathways for our students, broadened access to the arts for communities, and demonstrated the transformative power of universities working collaboratively with cultural partners.
“I am delighted that our close collaboration with Ikon will continue, and I look forward to expanding its reach in the years ahead. BCU Tuesdays has already had a big impact, and the initiative reflects our deep commitment to civic engagement and creative opportunity.”
Ian Hyde, CEO at Ikon, observed: “BCU Tuesdays are proving popular with Ikon’s audiences, offering an extra day of free access to the gallery.
“The initiative creates valuable new opportunities for young people interested in pursuing careers in the creative and cultural industries.
“The collaboration between Ikon and Birmingham City University, united by a shared commitment to developing the next generation of artists, curators, and educators, represents a significant and meaningful partnership.”
BCU Tuesdays and the relationship with Ikon exemplify the University’s Strategy 2030 in action - developing the talent of tomorrow, powering regional prosperity through creativity and innovation, and advancing BCU’s civic mission by acting as an anchor institution.
Impact of BCU Tuesdays
Developing Talent and Creative Practice
- Deep collaboration between BCU staff and students and Ikon’s exhibitions and education teams on planning, delivering and evaluating artistic programmes.
- Hands-on involvement in school workshops and the development of major exhibitions.
- A dedicated weekly space enabling BCU academic and technical staff, postgraduates and undergraduates to test ideas, showcase work and perform in front of live audiences.
Strengthening Public Engagement
- Enabled Ikon to open an additional public day each week, welcoming 18,812 visitors (12.9% of total visitors) between 1 October 2024 and 1 August 2025.
- Contributed to 145,864 exhibition visitors to the gallery over a period of 10 months, an 11% increase in 2023/24.
- Supported Thread the Loom, a major textile exhibition underpinned by an AVL Studio Dobby Loom loaned by BCU.
- Significantly raised the profile of weaving and BCU’s BA Textile Design course at regional, national and international levels.
Expanding Creative Education
- Delivered 12 Explore Days with BCU’s Schools Outreach Team, led by Art, Design and Media staff.
- Engaged 200+ Key Stage 4 and 5 pupils from feeder schools across the West Midlands, Shropshire and Worcestershire.
- Achieved a 66% increase in student participation, from primary through to higher education.
- Creative sessions co-delivered with students and academics across Fine Art, Arts and Education Practices, Art Education, Photography, Fashion and Textiles.
BCU staff and students believe the collaboration with Ikon has successfully opened up opportunities to explore their talent and gain real-world experience.
Cathy Wade, Course Leader for MA Arts and Education Practices at BCU, said: “BCU Tuesdays have offered students at Birmingham School of Art invaluable professional opportunities to test and develop their skills in workshops with schools and colleges at Ikon Gallery.
“I have seen this year’s cohort gain the skills needed to work professionally within the arts during their engagement with BCU Tuesdays. This engagement sets them apart from many graduates who have the theoretical knowledge but little practical application.”
Lara Gembarska, BA Textiles Design student, said: “I have made several connections already at the gallery, which will help my professional career once I have graduated from university.
“I have learnt so much from the artists that I have worked with so far and will definitely carry these ideas into my final university projects.”
Alis Oldfield, Senior Lecturer in Fine Art at BCU, added: “The visibility and platform offered by Thread the Loom, combined with the support of BCU Tuesdays, has been crucial in demonstrating the value of art education to the boarder community.
“This initiative will have lasting impact on the next generation of artists – many of whom are already visiting and participating in these programmes and who may one day study with us.”